Reactor with quick connects

ABSTRACT

A modular reactor system comprises a backplane connected to a computer and a thermal control unit. The backplane includes a plurality of seats for releasably holding a plurality of modules. Each module holds a reactor vessel that may be used to conduct experiments. A plurality of laboratory instruments, such as motors, switches, sensors and pumps are included within the backplane and on the reactor modules. These laboratory instruments are utilized to perform work on the contents of the reactor vessels when the modules holding the reactor vessels are positioned in the backplane. A computer is connected to the backplane and controls the laboratory instruments within the backplane and on the reactor modules positioned within the backplane. A thermal control unit provides a thermal control fluid that is delivered to the reactors in the reactor modules when the modules are properly seated in the backplane.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.10/339,229 filed Jan. 9, 2003.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The present invention is related to the field of chemicalreactors, and more particularly, automated reactors for use in processresearch and development as may be conducted in a laboratory.

[0003] Laboratory automation developed over the past decade has allowedchemists to become much more efficient in conducting experiments.Laboratory automation has been particularly useful for high thru-putscreening, where a large number of different compounds are tested usingparticular chemicals. These tests are typically conducted in very smallreaction vessels, such as multiple well microplates (e.g., 96 wellmicroplates), where a very small amount of reagent is added to a smallamount of experimental solution in each microplate well. From the largenumber of small scale experiments, a few promising leads may beidentified. These leads will require additional testing on a largerscale, before truly promising chemical combinations can be identified.Larger scale testing typically involves larger amounts of experimentalsolution combined with larger amounts of reagents. Of course, thesetests are conducted in larger reaction vessels, such as vessels of 50 mlor more.

[0004] A few systems exist that allow chemists to automate experimentsin larger reaction vessels. Examples of such systems include the CLARK®automatic reactor system sold by Argonaut Technologies, Inc. of FosterCity, Calif. Such systems typically provide a single reactor vessel anda number of laboratory instruments capable of automatically interactingwith the reactor vessel. When using these systems, a chemist firstprepares a reactor and attaches all necessary components for completionof the experiment (e.g., reagent feed lines, temperature sensors,stirrers, etc.). After the reactor is prepared, the chemist uses asoftware program to provide instructions for conducting the experimentusing the laboratory instruments. After receiving the chemist'sinstructions, the software controls the laboratory instruments toautomatically conduct the experiment (e.g., the system automaticallyfeeds reagents at the desired times, monitors reaction variables, stirsthe experimental solution, etc.). This automation allows the experimentto be conducted without the chemist being physically present, thusfreeing the chemist to complete other valuable tasks.

[0005] Although laboratory automation continues to assist with highthru-put screening, many areas for improvement remain. For example, manyautomated laboratory systems for larger scale reactions are limited touse in a single experiment. Chemists would like to simultaneouslyconduct several different larger scale experiments using a singlesoftware program. Furthermore, those automated laboratory systems thatallow chemists to conduct more than one experiment are limited toconducting very similar experiments with similar functions,environmental conditions, and steps in any given batch of experiments.Chemists would like to have the flexibility to simultaneously conductvery different experiments using a single automated laboratory system.Of course, many other areas for improvement remain. The modular reactorsystem of the present invention presents a number of improvements oversuch prior art systems.

SUMMARY

[0006] A modular reactor system includes an apparatus that housesseveral small reactors and independently measures and controls thecritical parameters of each reactor during experiments, thereby allowingchemists to study the synthesis of a broad range of compounds. Theapparatus comprises a computer, a housing having a plurality of seats,and a thermal control unit. A plurality of modules are removablypositioned in the seats of the housing. Each of the plurality of modulesincludes a module shell that holds a jacketed reactor vessel. Thereactor vessel includes a reactor chamber and a plurality of portsleading to the reactor chamber and designed to receive laboratoryinstruments. Each reactor vessel also includes a fluid chamber formedbetween an exterior wall and an interior wall. The exterior wallincludes an inlet port for receiving thermal control fluid into thefluid chamber and an outlet port for expelling thermal control fluidfrom the thermal control chamber for return to the thermal control unit.

[0007] The housing of the modular reactor system comprises a trunk thatsupports the plurality of seats and a top canopy. A plurality oflaboratory instruments are positioned within the housing. For example, aplurality of electric motors are connected to stirrers that extend intoreactor vessels seated in the housing. In addition, a plurality of gaslines are positioned in the housing along with a plurality of gas lineconnectors. Each gas line connector joins one of the gas lines to one ofthe modules when the module is positioned in one of the seats of thehousing. Furthermore, a plurality of electrical connectors areassociated with each seat of the housing. Placement of one of themodules in a seat of the housing joins the electrical connector to themodule. The electrical connector provides an electrical connectionbetween the module and the computer.

[0008] Each module of the module reactor system further comprises atleast one clamp that retains the reactor in the reactor seat. Inaddition, each module includes at least one pump positioned on themodule shell. At least one reagent seat is also positioned on the moduleshell. The at least one pump is operable to pump a reagent positioned onthe reagent seat to the reactor chamber.

[0009] Each module may also include a unique identification. The uniqueidentification may be as simple as a name or tag assigned to the moduleand marked somewhere on the module so that the unique identification maybe read by a human. However, in one embodiment of the invention, theunique identification is an electronic tag or similar identifier. Inthis embodiment, an identification reader is associated with each of theseats. Each identification reader is operable to read the identificationof one of the modules placed in the seat associated with theidentification reader. The unique identification of each module ispassed on to the computer which is programmed to execute uniqueinstructions with respect to each module, regardless of the seat inwhich the module is placed.

[0010] These and other features, aspects, and configurations of thepresent invention will become better understood with reference to thefollowing description and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011]FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of a modular reactor system;

[0012]FIG. 2 shows an elevational view of a plurality of modulesinstalled in a backplane unit of the modular reactor system of FIG. 1;

[0013]FIG. 3 shows the backplane of FIG. 2 with no modules installed;

[0014]FIG. 4A shows a motor installed in the backplane of FIG. 3;

[0015]FIG. 4B shows a mount used with the motor of FIG. 4A;

[0016]FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of a control board for the modularreactor system;

[0017]FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of various connections between thecontrol board of FIG. 7 and various laboratory instruments;

[0018]FIG. 7 shows a front perspective view of one of the modules ofFIG. 2;

[0019]FIG. 8 shows a side view of the module of FIG. 7;

[0020]FIG. 9 shows a back perspective view of the module of FIG. 7;

[0021]FIG. 10A shows an elevational view of an exemplary reactor for usewith the modular reactor system;

[0022]FIG. 10B shows a parts view of a quick connect attachment for thereactor of FIG. 10A;

[0023]FIG. 10C shows a thermal control system for use in the modularreactor system of FIG. 1;

[0024]FIG. 10D shows a reactor thermal control system for use in thethermal control system of FIG. 10C;

[0025]FIG. 11A shows an overview screen of a graphical user desktop ofthe modular reactor system;

[0026]FIG. 11B shows a more detailed overview screen accessible from theoverview screen of FIG. 11A;

[0027]FIG. 12 shows a dialog box associated with the graphical userdesktop of FIG. 11;

[0028]FIG. 13 shows a stage details screen of a recipe editor of themodular reactor system; and

[0029]FIG. 14 shows a stages overview screen of the recipe editor of themodular reactor system;

[0030]FIG. 15 shows a configuration screen associated with the graphicaluser desktop of FIG. 11A or 11B;

[0031]FIG. 16 shows a bottom view of a reactor clamp for use inassociation with the module of FIG. 7;

[0032]FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of a rear member of the reactorclamp of FIG. 16;

[0033]FIG. 18 shows a front perspective view and a rear perspective viewof a front member of the reactor clamp of FIG. 16;

[0034]FIG. 19 shows a cross-section of the front member of FIG. 18;

[0035]FIG. 20 shows a representation of the position of a reactor lidand a reactor mouth when the pressure in the reactor vessel is below athreshold pressure;

[0036]FIG. 21 shows a representation of the position of the reactor lidand the reactor mouth when the pressure in the reactor vessel is abovethe threshold pressure;

[0037]FIG. 22 shows a side view of a reactor lid;

[0038]FIG. 23 shows a top view of the reactor lid of FIG. 22.

DESCRIPTION

[0039] Overview

[0040] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, a modular reactor system 10comprises a support housing or chassis 12 capable of releasably holdingmultiple reactor modules 16 (also referred to herein as simply“modules”). A plurality of module seats are provided for holding thereactor modules 16. Each reactor module 16 holds a reactor vessel 30that may be used to conduct experiments. A plurality of laboratoryinstruments, such as motors, switches, sensors and pumps are includedwithin the support housing 12 and associated with each seat of thesupport housing. A plurality of laboratory instruments are also providedon each of the reactor modules 16. These laboratory instruments areutilized to perform work on the contents of the reactor vessels 30 whenthe modules 16 holding the reactor vessels 30 are positioned in thesupport housing 12. The support housing 12 is also referred to herein asthe “backplane”, as it provides the background platform for one or morelaboratory instruments and/or module 16 connections. A computer 18 isconnected to the backplane, and the laboratory instruments within thebackplane 12 are in communication with the computer 18. Laboratoryinstruments on the reactor modules 16 are in communication with thecomputer 18 when the reactor modules are positioned within the backplane12. Each laboratory instrument may be independently controlled by thecomputer, regardless of the seat or module associated with thelaboratory instrument. To this end, a first laboratory instrumentassociated with one module or seat may be activated without activationof a similar laboratory instrument associated with a different module orseat. A thermal control unit 14 includes a plurality of individualreactor thermal control systems 13 and a chill fluid system 14A. Asdescribed in further detail herein, the individual reactor thermalcontrol systems 13 work with the chill fluid system to provide thermalcontrol fluid to the reactors in the reactor modules when the modulesare properly seated in the backplane. The computer 18 is also incommunication with the thermal control unit 14, and the thermal controlunit is arranged to provide independent temperature control for eachreactor vessel in each module.

[0041] Backplane

[0042] With reference to FIG. 3, the backplane 12 includes a pluralityof module seats 20 designed to releasably hold the reactor modules 16.The term “slot” is also used herein to refer to a module seat 20. Eachslot 20 is defined by two module guide rails 21. The module guide rails21 are sized to receive a base portion 83 of one of the reactor modules16 (see FIG. 9). The module guide rails include slits extending alongthe guide rails that are designed to receive a lip 81 on the module base83 (see FIG. 9). Pinion gears may be included along the side rails andslits in order to mesh with a slotted rack on the lips of the module.This rack and pinion mechanism provides for smooth insertion of themodules into the slots 20 of the backplane 12. A crank device ormechanism that drives the pinion gears (not shown) may also be providedin association with each slot to assist with full insertion of themodule into the slot. For example, the crank device may be activated topull the module further into the slot using the slotted rack on the lips81 of the module. In one embodiment, access to the crank device could beprovided through holes 25 located at the base of the backplane, and thecrank device may be rotated using a screwdriver or similar elongatedrotation device.

[0043] A plurality of electrical connectors 40 are positioned in thebackplane above the slots 20, such that each electrical connector isassociated with one of the slots. Each electrical connector 40 isdesigned to mate with an electrical connector on a, reactor module 16when the reactor module is placed in the slot. Gas line connections 41,two fluid ports 23, and a backlight 25 are also provided directly aboveeach slot 20. The gas line connectors 41 are designed to mate with gasline connectors on each module. The gas line connectors 41 not onlyprovide a connection between the modules and the gas lines in thebackplane, but also provide a connection to a vacuum and/or pressuresource also located in the backplane. The fluid ports 23 provide aconnection to the fluid circulated in the thermal control unit. Thebacklights 25 provide a light source to assist with viewing the contentsof the reactors when modules holding the reactors are seated in thebackplane. Furthermore, an identification reader 22 in the form of anelectric tag reader is provided in each slot. The identification reader22 is positioned within the slot to read an identification placed on oneof the modules that is placed in the slot. The identification on eachmodule is an electronic tag that can be read by the electronic tagreader 22.

[0044] The backplane 12 also includes a top canopy 45 that sits abovethe slots 20. The top canopy 45 includes a front panel 42 that includesa number of input/output devices related to the laboratory instruments.In particular, the front panel 42 includes a number of receptacles 44used to receive electronic information from laboratoryinstruments/transducers included on the reactor modules. For example,receptacles 44 are provided for receiving measurements/signals relatedto temperature, such as the temperature of the reactor contents, thetemperature of the vapor within the reactor, and/or the temperature ofthe ambient air. A receptacle 44 is also provided for receivingmeasurements/signals indicating the pH level of the reactor contents.Furthermore, an auxiliary receptacle 44 is provided for receiving otherelectronic signals/measurements related to the reactor. For example, theauxiliary receptacle could be used with a sensor to measure and/orcontrol the pressure within the reactor or the volume of fluid withinthe reactor. The receptacles 44 are positioned on the top panel 42 insets associated with each slot.

[0045] Gas flow knobs 48 are also provided on the top panel 42. One gasflow knob 48 exists for each slot of the backplane. Each of the gas flowknobs 48 controls a valve in a gas line located in the backplane 12 thatis fed with inert gas from a delivery manifold connected to a large tank(not shown) positioned exterior the backplane. The gas lines in thebackplane 12 direct gas between the tank and the gas line connectors 41associated with the slots 20. Accordingly, an inert gas can be directedto each module 16 placed in the backplane. Turning the knobs 48 willcontrol the valves to allow more or less gas to flow through the gaslines in the backplane. A plurality of bubbler path switches 38 are alsoprovided for each gas line in the backplane. If one of the bubbler pathswitches 38 is activated, the flow of the inert gas to a particularmodule is directed through a reactor bubbler 39 located directly abovethe slot 20 holding the module 16. The bubbler 39 provides a visualindication of the amount of gas flowing through the gas line in thehousing to the module. A system bubbler 43 is also provided to provide avisual indication that the gas in the delivery manifold is beingrefreshed.

[0046] A vent port 46 is provided above each slot 20, next to each setof receptacles. A tube from the reactor vessel 30 to the vent port 46may be used to vent the inert gas and/or reaction fumes away from thereactor vessel. This vent port 46 includes a valve and pressuretransducer that can be closed to measure reactor pressure. To this end,the backplane is typically placed in a laboratory hood (not shown) sothat gasses and fumes leaving the reactor vessels are vented out of thelaboratory through the hood. At the same time, a clean air inlet 35 isprovided into the backplane. This inlet 35 provides a source of cleanair that may be used to purge or dilute other gasses within thebackplane or those created during an experimental process.

[0047] In addition to those discussed above, a number of other I/Odevices may be provided on the top panel or elsewhere on the backplane12. For example, output devices such as LEDs and other display meanscould be provided to indicate temperature warnings (e.g., excessivetemperature warning) or instrument operation (e.g., coolant is flowing).

[0048] A variety of laboratory instruments may also be included in thebackplane under the top canopy 45 and behind the top panel 42 above eachslot. For example, a robotic arm (not shown) may be provided under thetop canopy 45 of the backplane. Of course, the instruments in thebackplane 12 may be mounted on other locations of the backplane and donot need to be mounted under the top canopy 45 and/or behind top panel42. The robotic arm may be used to accomplish tasks that may benecessary during any particular experiment, such as taking samples froma particular reactor.

[0049] Other instruments which may be included in the backplane areelectric motors. For example, according to one embodiment, electricmotors used for stirrers are mounted behind top panel 42 above eachslot. These electric motors may be connected to stirring shafts thatextend into the reaction vessels 30 when the modules 16 are placed inthe slots 20 of the backplane 12. The electric motors are not shown inFIG. 3, but the position of an electric motor behind the backplane isindicated by reference numeral 47. A view of a motor 130 positionedunder the top canopy 45 is shown in FIG. 4. The motor 130 is held withina mount 132 that is connected to the backplane 12. The motor includesdriveshaft 134 that is connected to a stirrer shaft 79 by a quickconnect device 136.

[0050] Because the reactor vessel 30 is not permanently attached to thebackplane 12, misalignment between the reactor vessel 30 and thestirring shaft 79 may occur. One way that known systems compensate forthis misalignment is through the use of spring couplers. Anotherapproach relies upon the use of a flexible tube in line between theshaft 79 of the stirrer motor and a Teflon® coated shaft which extendsinto the reactor. Both of these solutions, however, create additionalproblems. For example, both solutions result in side loading of theshaft. Accordingly, removal of the stir shaft is made more difficult.Moreover, the side loading on the shaft results in wear of the shaftand/or the seal at the point the shaft enters the reactor. This wear mayresult in contamination of the reaction mixture, loss of pressurecontrol in the reactor, or even shaft failure.

[0051] According to one embodiment of the modular reactor system, astirrer system is provided which avoids the problems associated withknown systems by allowing for the effect of movement of the stirrersystem in the X-Y plane. Referring to FIG. 4B, one embodiment of astirrer system is further described. Motor 130 is attached to mount 132.Mount 132 comprises counter-balance arms 150 and 152. Mount 132 ispivotably connected to rotatable base 154 by a pin which is insertedthrough hole 156. Rotatable base 154 is fixedly connected to shaft 158.Also shown in FIG. 4B is telescoping shaft 160 which is internallyshaped so as to receive universal ball 162 which is fixedly connected tostirrer shaft 79.

[0052] To connect telescoping shaft 160 to universal ball 162, anoperator pulls telescoping shaft 160 downward until it nears universalball 162. If universal ball 162 and telescoping shaft 160 aremisaligned, the operator may rotate shaft 158 to obtain rotation aboutaxis A, having the effect of moving the telescoping shaft along theX-axis. Alternatively and/or additionally, the operator may pivot motormount 132 about the pin inserted in hole 156, resulting in motion aboutaxis B, having the effect of moving the telescoping shaft along theY-axis. Thus, telescoping shaft 160 may be positioned over universalball 162 such that when telescoping shaft 160 is turned by motor 130,universal ball 162 and stirrer shaft 79 are caused to rotate. Accordingto one embodiment, counterbalance arms 150 and 152 are movable, suchthat telescoping shaft 160 may be positioned near universal ball 162 bymoving counterbalance arms 150 and 152.

[0053] Those of skill in the relevant art will recognize that a numberof alternative embodiments exist for the stirrer system of the presentinvention. By way of example, but not of limitation, the ball may belocated on the motor shaft. Alternatively, a third piece may be usedwhich provides coupling between the motor shaft and the stirrer shaft.Moreover, springs may be used to bias the coupling means. This isuseful, for example, for embodiments wherein it is desired to makecoupling of the motor shaft to the stirrer shaft automatic uponinsertion of the reactor module into the backplane. A number ofalternative embodiments are also possible regarding the counterbalancearms. By way of example, but not of limitation, the counterbalance armsmay be movable about a plurality of axes. According to anotherembodiment, the location of the motor within the mount serves tocounterbalance the system. The salient characteristic is the ability tominimize side loading of the stirrer shaft when the alignment betweenthe stirrer shaft and the motor shaft is varied.

[0054] With reference again to FIG. 3, the backplane further includes atrunk 15 that acts as the housing for electric wiring, gas lines, andthe electronics box for the backplane. The top canopy 45 and the slots20 are connected to and supported by the trunk 15 of the backplane. Thetrunk 15 includes a power inlet 17 for receiving a power cord. The trunkalso includes a power switch 19. In addition, the trunk 15 includesvacuum switches 27 that are operable to turn on or off the vacuumprovided to each slot of the backplane. Furthermore, a main gas supplyconnection 29 is provided through the trunk 15. This connection allows agas line to be easily connected to the backplane, so the gas can beprovided to each slot and module positioned within the backplane.

[0055] A control board 50 is positioned within the trunk 15 of thebackplane 12. With reference to FIG. 5, the control board 50 is acircuit board that serves as the interconnection between the computer 18and the electronic instruments within the backplane. A standard RS-232interface is used to connect the computer 18 to the control board. Thisconnection may be a direct connection, connection over a local areanetwork, or even a wide area network. The control board 50 includes aprocessor 54 that communicates with software on the computer 18 tocontrol all instruments and output devices connected to the backplane12. Furthermore, the processor 54 receives information from varioussensors and other system inputs through the backplane 12 and passes theinformation on to the computer 18 at designated times.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 5, the processor 54 is powered by power supply56. The processor 54 is connected to global I/O unit 58 through bus 59.The global I/O unit 58 transfers signals to and receives signals fromthe I/O devices on the backplane that are not associated with aparticular module. For example, the global I/O unit 58 receives signalsrelated to the presence of a vacuum at vacuum switch 27, the flow of gasthrough a main gas line, the flow of fluid through the thermal controlunit 14, the temperature of the fluid, the ambient air temperature, andthe internal temperature of the backplane. The global I/O unit 58 alsocontrols the state of the backlights associated with each slot of thebackplane. The processor 54 is further connected to a number ofdedicated module control units 60, user I/O units 62 and module ID units22 (referenced above as “identification readers”) through bus 61. Themodule control units 60 transfer control signals to particular modules16 positioned in the slots 20 of the backplane 12, and receive inputsrelated to the particular modules. For example, one of the modulecontrol units 60 may relay signals instructing one of the motors 130 tospin, thereby operating the stirrer connected to the motor. As anotherexample, one of the module control units 60 may receive a temperatureinput from one of the modules that is then passed on to the processor 54and computer 18.

[0057]FIG. 6 shows the connection between a module control unit 60 andvarious laboratory instruments associated with a particular module 16.For example, readings from temperature probes 140, a pressure probe 144,a pH probe 142, and a module detect 146 are all delivered to the modulecontrol 60. In addition, the module control unit 60 provides controlsignals to the reagent feed pumps 86 positioned on the module. Themodule control unit 60 also controls various valves 147 within thebackplane, such as gas valves, vacuum valves, and vent valves, that maybe used in association with the module 16. Furthermore, the modulecontrol unit 60 controls other devices 148 related to operation of thethermal control unit, including pumps and valves, that may be used tocontrol the temperature of the reactor 30 positioned in the module 16.

[0058] With reference again to FIG. 5, the user I/O units 62 receiveinstructions from the user of the modular reactor system related to anindividual module positioned in a slot of the backplane. The module I/Ounits also deliver outputs to the user of the modular reactor systemrelated to an individual module positioned in a slot of the backplane.To this end, the module I/O units 62 monitor and control various userinterfaces. For example, the module I/O units receive inputs related towhether a user has manually opened or closed one of the bubbler pathswitches 38. In addition, the module I/O units may be used to providewarnings related to particular modules, such as a warning lightindicating that the reactor in a particular module has reached acritical temperature and is overheating.

[0059] In the embodiment of FIG. 5, each module ID unit 22 is associatedwith one of the slots of the backplane 12. When a module is positionedin one of the slots, the module ID unit 22 associated with that slot isoperable to read the electronic tag located on the module positioned inthe slot and thereby identify the specific module positioned in theslot. The module ID unit 22 then relays the identification of the moduleto the processor 54 and computer 18. Based on the particular module IDunit 22 that reports a reading, the computer can recognize a particularmodule in a particular slot of the backplane 12. This provides thesystem with the ability to distinguish one module over another module inany given slot, and thereby carry out specific instructions for thatmodule, regardless of the slot in which the module is placed.

[0060] Reactor Modules

[0061] With reference to FIGS. 7-9, each reactor module includes amodule shell 70 and a reactor 30 for holding reaction contents. Themodule shell 70 is sturdy and typically comprised of steel or othermetallic material. Of course other rigid materials could be used to formthe module shell 70. The module shell 70 includes two sidewalls 80 and atop handle 82 bridging the two sidewalls. A reactor seat 72 holding areactor 30 is positioned between the two sidewalls 80. A reactor clamp84 extends horizontally from the top handle 82 so the clamp 84 ispositioned directly above the reactor seat 72. A protective shield 85 isfastened to the reactor clamp and extends to the reactor seat 72. Theprotective shield 85 is transparent and comprised of polycarbonate orother material resistant to shattering. The protective shield 85provides a barrier between an individual and the thermal fluid flowingthrough the reactor jacket, and thus provides a safety device that helpsto block an individual watching an experiment in the reactor 30 fromescaping thermal fluid should the reactor 30 shatter. The backlight 25in the housing is positioned to shine through the reactor 30 andprotective shield 85 to provide improved viewing of the reactor.

[0062] A module lip 81 is located along the base portion 83 of eachsidewall 80. Each module lip 81 is designed to interact with a rail 21located in one of the slots 20 of the backplane 12, and thereby securethe module in the slot of the backplane. As mentioned previously, thelip may include a slotted rack designed to mesh with pinion gears on theside rails and thereby assist with smooth insertion of the module intothe slot.

[0063] An instrument box 76 is positioned below and in front of thereactor seat 72, between the two sidewalls. The instrument box 76carries two pumps 86, two gas fittings 88, and a pressure/vacuum fitting89. Two reagent seats 74 are located below and in the front of theinstrument box 76. The reagent seats 74 are dimensioned to hold twobottles/vessels 90 (see FIG. 2) containing reagents to be added to thereactor 30 during the experiment. The pumps 86 are used to transferreagents in the reagent bottles 90 to the reactor 30. To accomplishthis, tubes 31 (see FIG. 2) are extended between each reagent bottle 90and the pumps 86. Additional tubes 31 are extended from the pumps 86 tothe reactor 30. Operation of one of the pumps 86 draws reagent from thereagent bottle 90, through the pump 86 and into the reactor chamber 96(see FIG. 10A). Tubes also extend from the gas fittings 88 to thereagent bottles 90 and/or the reactor 30. The tubes connected to the gasfittings 88 provide an inert gas to the reagents 90 and/or the reactorchamber 96. Furthermore, a tube (not shown) extends from thepressure/vacuum fitting 89 to the reactor 30. This tube may be used toapply a pressure or vacuum to the reactor 30 during an experiment. Anynumber of flexible laboratory tubes and fittings known to those of skillin the art may be used to make the above-described connections.

[0064] The reactor 30 sits in the reactor seat 72 of the module shelland is held securely to the module shell by reactor clamp 84. Thereactor 30 is typically comprised of glass, or other material imperviousto most chemical reactions. As shown in FIG. 10A, the reactor 30includes an exterior reactor wall 98 that surrounds an interior glasswall 95 to form a thermal control chamber 97 there between. The interiorglass wall 95 defines a reactor chamber 96 where reagents and othersolutions are introduced when conducting experiments in the reactor. Areactor mouth 91 is located at the top of the reactor and leads to thereactor chamber 96. A reactor lid 92, as shown in FIG. 22, is removablypositioned on top of the reactor mouth 91. An o-ring is placed upon thereactor mouth 91 to facilitate sealing of the reactor lid 92 to thereactor mouth 91. A reactor junction is formed in the area where thereactor mouth 91 seals to the reactor lid 92. As used herein, the term“reactor junction” is not limited to the portions of the reactor mouth91 and reactor lid 92 that physically seal, but also include portions ofthe reactor mouth and reactor lid immediately adjacent thereto,including external portions of the reactor mouth and reactor lid thatlead immediately to the sealing portions.

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, the reactor lid 92 includes anumber of lid ports 93 that provide access into the interior of thereactor. The lid 92 includes a stirrer port 350 positioned at the topcenter of the reactor lid 92. The stirrer port 350 is designed to acceptthe stirrer shaft 79 of a mechanical agitator in order to stir thecontents of the reactor chamber 96. Peripheral ports 352, 354, 356, 358,360 and 362, are each provided for additional access to the reactorchamber 96 through the lid 92. These peripheral ports may be used toinsert various laboratory instruments and feed lines into the reactorchamber. For example, the peripheral ports may be used to insert anautomated sampler, temperature probes, pH probes, inert gas feeds, andreagent feeds into the reactor chamber. Peripheral ports 352, 360 and362 are designed with a standard ChemThread® No. 12 thread pattern. Feedports 354 and 358 are each designed with a standard ChemThread® No. 4thread pattern. Peripheral port 356 is designed with a standard taper“24/40” type female connector. As shown in FIG. 23, peripheral ports352, 356, 360 and 362 are all spaced 90° apart around stirrer port 350.Peripheral ports 354 and 358 are each spaced 45° apart from peripheralport 356.

[0066] With reference again to FIG. 10A, the exterior glass wall 98defines a temperature regulation chamber 97 with the reactor 30. Thetemperature regulation chamber 97 may also be referred to herein as a“jacket” or a “cooling chamber”, but it is recognized that the chamberholds fluid that may assist in cooling or heating the contents of thereactor. An inlet port 100 and an outlet port 102 are provided in theexterior glass wall 98. The inlet port 100 and outlet port 102 eachinclude a threaded portion 99. In addition, both the inlet port 100 andthe outlet port 102 have a “quick connect” attachment 101 positionedthereon. As used herein, the term “quick connect attachment” or “quickconnect connector” refers to a connection device that facilitates easyand secure connection to an accompanying connector by simply insertingone quick connect connector into an accompanying connector without theneed for tightening, twisting or otherwise clamping or locking theconnectors together. Plastic threaded sleeves 103 screw on to thethreaded portion of inlet port 100 and outlet port 102 to secure thequick connects to the ports 100 and 102. The quick connect attachments101 on the reactor 30 are designed to mate with complimentary quickconnect connectors positioned in the fluid ports 23 of the backplane.

[0067] With reference to FIG. 10B, quick connect attachments 101 includea base element 10 c. A shaft 101 d (also referred to herein as a “stud”)is attached to the base section 10 c. A first O-ring groove 101 a and asecond O-ring groove 101 b are circumscribed about shaft 101 d. O-rings101 f and 101 g, preferably made of an elastomeric compound, aredeposited into first O-ring groove 101 a and second O-ring groove 101 b,respectively. First O-ring groove 101 a and second O-ring groove 101 bpreferably accept the same size of O-ring. The base element 101 c has alarger external diameter than shaft 101 d. An opening (not shown)extends through the center of shaft 101 d and base element 101 c tocreate a channel through which fluid may flow.

[0068] Plastic sleeves 103 are open-ended, hollow cylinders whichinclude first opening 103 a, second opening 103 b, and sleeve threads103 c. In comparison to quick connect attachments 101, the diameter offirst opening 103 a is greater than the diameter of shaft 101 d, andsmaller than the diameter of base element 10 c. The diameter of secondopening 103 b is similar to the external diameter of inlet port 100 andoutlet port 102. Along the inside of plastic sleeves 103, starting atsecond opening 103 b, are sleeve threads 103 c which are complimentaryto threads 99 of inlet port 100 and outlet port 102.

[0069] The quick connect attachment 101 is inserted into the secondopening 103 b of the plastic sleeve 103, shaft 101 d end first, suchthat the shaft 101 d extends out of the first opening 103 a, but thebase element 101 c remains inside the plastic sleeve 103. The secondopening 103 b of the plastic sleeve 103 is then positioned near theinlet port 100 or the outlet port 102, and the threads 99 are engagedwith the sleeve threads 103 c. The plastic sleeve 103 is rotated untilthe base element 101 c of the quick connect attachment 101 tightly abutsthe end of the inlet port 100 or the outlet port 103. A base O-ring 101e, made of an elastomeric material, is placed between the base element101 c and the inlet port 100 or outlet port 102, to create a tighterseal between quick connect attachment 101 and inlet port 100 or outletport 102. Attaching quick connect attachments 101 to inlet port 100 andoutlet port 102 with the use of plastic sleeve 103 creates a rigidconnection between the quick connect attachments 101 and the ports 100and 102. These rigid connections are used to allow the ports 100 and 102to quickly and easily connect to fluid ports 23 on the backplane 12 whena module is placed in a slot of the backplane. This connection allowsfor thermal regulation fluid to circulate within the cooling chamber 97,as described in greater detail below.

[0070]FIG. 8 shows a reactor 30 installed into a module shell 70. Athermal control system 14 (see FIGS. 10c and 10 d) is connected to abackplane 12. Fluid ports 23 are fixed to the backplane 12, and areconnected to the thermal control system 14. Fluid ports 23 are of acomplimentary design to quick connect attachments 101, and include acavity (not shown) designed to releasably engage the shaft 101 d of thequick connect attachment 101. The O-rings 101 f and 101 g, positioned inthe O-ring grooves 101 a and 101 b, provide a tight seal between quickconnect attachments 101 and fluid ports 23. When engaged with the fluidports 23, the quick connect attachments 101 allow fluid to circulatefrom the thermal control system 14, through the cooling chamber 97, andreturn to the thermal control system 14.

[0071]FIG. 9 shows a rear view of a reactor 30 installed into a moduleshell 70. Quick connect attachments 101 are shown attached to inlet port100 and outlet port 102 with the use of plastic sleeves 103. Quickconnect attachments 101 are shown disengaged from fluid ports 23.

[0072] As described above, the quick connect attachments 101 allow theinlet port 100 and outlet port 102 to be quickly and easily connected tothe fluid ports 23 in the backplane 12. Connection of the inlet andoutlet ports to the fluid ports 23 of the backplane allow thermalcontrol fluid to flow into and out of the cooling chamber 97, therebycontrolling the temperature of the contents of the reaction chamber 96.The reaction chamber 96 is dimensioned to a particular reaction volumein which various experiments may be conducted. The reaction volume istypically between 30 ml and 500 ml. Of course, greater reaction volumesare possible, but as the reaction volumes increase, the size of themodules must also increase. The lower end of reaction volume is limitedby any minimum volume required to allow use of certain desiredlaboratory instruments, such as temperature probes, stirrers andsampling probes. For example, a particular temperature probe and stirrercombination may require at least 50 ml of fluid in order for bothinstruments to operate properly.

[0073] A stirrer 78 is also shown in FIG. 10A. The stirrer includes ashaft 79 and propeller 77 used to stir the contents of the reactor 30during an experiment. Although the portion of the stirring shaft shownin FIG. 10A is free floating within the reaction chamber 96, thestirring shaft actually extends from the reactor chamber 96 through aport 93 on the reactor lid 92. As shown in FIG. 4, a quick connect 136connection device is used to attach the stirrer shaft 79 to the driveshaft 134 of the motor 130 when the module holding the reactor ispositioned within one of the slots 20 of the backplane 12. Of course,the quick connect 136 may take one of several different forms. Forexample, the quick connect 136 may be a connecting shaft having one endthat fits over the stirrer shaft 79 and another end that fits over thedrive shaft 134 of the electric motor 130, thereby locking the driveshaft to the stirrer shaft.

[0074] Referring again to FIG. 9, each reactor module 16 includes a backplate 64 having an electrical connector 65 and a gas line connector 66positioned thereon. The electrical connector 65 mates with one of theelectrical connectors 40 in the backplane 12 when the module 16 isplaced in one of the slots 20. Likewise, the gas line connector 66 mateswith one of the gas line connectors in the backplane 12 when the module16 is placed in one of the slots 20. In this manner, when a module 16 isplaced in the slot 20, the module is powered through the backplane 12and is in electronic communication with one of the control modules ofthe backplane. Furthermore, a gas pressure and a vacuum source is madeavailable to the module 16 through the gas line connector 66.

[0075] An identification in the form of an electronic tag is held by theback plate 64 of the module shell 70. Electronic tags are well known tothose of skill in the electrical arts, and are available from a numberof commercial sources. As discussed previously, an identification reader22 is located above each slot of the backplane. When a module 16 isplaced in a slot 20 of the backplane, the reader 22 is aligned with theelectronic tag held by the back plate 64, allowing the reader toidentify the module and distinguish it from other modules in other slotsof the backplane 12. Although the electronic tag is not shown in FIG. 9,the electronic tag is retained below the surface of the back plate 64 atthe location shown by reference number 63, between the electricalconnector 65 and gas line connector 66. In this embodiment, theelectronic tag is a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, allowingthe tag to be read by the electronic tag reader without actuallycontacting the tag. The electronic tag could also be mounted on thesurface of the back plate 64 or on any other module location that allowsfor reading by the tag reader 22. Of course, other types of tags andreaders may be used, including optical tags such as bar codes. Otherexamples of identification that could be used include, withoutlimitation, infrared beacons, mechanical flags, and optical block codes.As another example, the identification could be an electronicidentification code magnetically or optically stored in a storage deviceretained on the module, and the identification reader could be a circuitor microprocessor that retrieves the stored code through the electricconnector on the module.

[0076] Each reactor module 16 is designed for repeated insertion intoand removal from any of the slots 20 of the backplane 12. When thishappens, some connections between the module and the backplane occurautomatically, while other connections must be made manually. Forexample, as discussed above, proper insertion of a module into a slotwill cause the electrical connectors in the module and the backplane toautomatically mate. Likewise, proper insertion of a module into a slotwill cause the gas line connectors in the module and the backplane toautomatically mate. Furthermore, quick connects 101 will cause the inletport 100 and outlet port 102 of the reactor to be joined to the fluidports on the backplane. However, once a reactor module 16 is properlyseated in a slot of the backplane 16, the stirring shaft 79 must bemanually connected to the drive shaft 134 of the motor 130 using thequick connect coupler 136. Furthermore, the leads of temperature probes140 may be easily connected to the receptacles 44 dedicated totemperature measurements by plugging the leads into the receptacles.Likewise, the leads of pH probes 144 and other probes may be easilyconnected to the receptacle 44 dedicated to that particular measurement.

[0077] Thermal Control Unit

[0078] Once a module 16 is seated in a slot 20 of the backplane 12, oneof the reactor thermal control systems 13 may be used to pump heating orcooling fluid (i.e. thermal control fluid) to the associated reactor 30through the quick connect 101 of the reactor. After reaching thereactor, the thermal control fluid flows in the thermal control chamber97 of the reactor between the interior glass wall 95 and the exteriorglass wall 98 and thereby heats or cools the contents of the reactionchamber, depending upon the temperature of the fluid and the reactionchamber.

[0079] In known systems, each reactor may be provided with a dedicatedheating element so as to maintain the reactor at or above ambienttemperature. In such a system, it is possible to heat various reactorsto different temperatures. Some systems further provide a single sourceof cooling fluid to the entire array of reactors for maintainingtemperature of all of the reactors below ambient temperature. Whenconducting the same process on all reactors in a device, this may beuseful. However, these known systems do not allow sufficient flexibilityfor the module reactor system of the present invention.

[0080] Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention comprises athermal control system which allows individual reactors to be maintainedat a desired temperature regardless of ambient temperature or thetemperature at which other reactors are maintained. Referring to FIG.10C, one embodiment of the thermal control system of the presentinvention is described.

[0081]FIG. 10C shows the one of the individual reactor thermal controlsystems 13. Reactor thermal control system 13 comprises a valve 164 anda thermal control fluid reservoir 166. Heat exchanger 168 and heatelement 170 are located within thermal control fluid reservoir 166.Thermal control fluid pump 172 takes a suction on thermal control fluidreservoir 166 to pump thermal control fluid through supply line 174.After passing through thermal control chamber 97, thermal control fluidis returned to reservoir 166 by return line 176. Thermocouples 178 and180 may be provided on supply line 174 and return line 176. Fluid ports23 are provided on supply line 174 and return line 176. According tothis embodiment, fluid ports 23 are designed to automatically engagewith quick connects 101 when module 16 is seated in a slot 20 of thebackplane 12. Relief valve 182 is provided to maintain a safe pressurein the thermal control fluid reservoir 166 even with expansion andcontraction of the thermal control fluid over a range of temperatures.

[0082] Cooling for the system in this embodiment is provided by a chillfluid system which is described in reference to FIG. 10D. Thermalcontrol system 14 comprises chill fluid supply system 184 which includeschill fluid reservoir 186, supply manifold 188 and return manifold 190.Chill fluid pump 192 takes a suction on chill fluid reservoir 186 andsupplies chill fluid to supply manifold 188. Back pressure control valve194 maintains the pressure of supply manifold 188 even as the heat loadon the system changes, as will be discussed further below. Chill fluidsupply manifold 188 provides chill fluid to individual reactor chillfluid systems by chill fluid supply lines 196. Fluid is returned fromthe reactors by chill fluid return lines 198. In this embodiment, valve164 is located on the supply line of the reactor chill fluid system,however, it may alternatively be located on the return line.

[0083] In operation, thermal control fluid pump 172 takes a suction onthermal control fluid reservoir 166 to constantly pump thermal controlfluid through supply line 174. Of course, temperature control softwaremay be used to vary the speed of thermal control fluid pump 172 or evento control thermal control fluid pump 172 on and off in response tosensed conditions or a recipe if desired. Temperature control softwaremay also be used to control heat element 170 as necessary to provideheat to thermal control fluid reservoir 166. Chill fluid to thermalcontrol fluid reservoir 166 is provided by positioning valve 164. Thisregulates the amount of chill fluid that passes through heat exchanger168 and cools the thermal control fluid in thermal control fluidreservoir 166.

[0084] According to one embodiment, control of valve 164 is effected bytemperature control software. Chill fluid flow is controlled by valve164 since supply manifold 188 of chill fluid supply system 184 ismaintained at a positive pressure by back pressure control valve 194 andchill fluid pump 192. Specifically, as a valve throttles opens, thepressure in supply manifold 188 will tend to drop. However, backpressure control valve 20 will throttle shut so as to maintain positivepressure within supply manifold 188, thus assuring a supply of chillfluid to other reactors. Alternatively, a variable speed chill fluidpump may be used to increase supply of chill fluid as a valve throttlesopen. According to one embodiment, the system is sized such that thepressure within the supply header is maintained at a constant pressureregardless of whether all the valves are full open or full shut.

[0085] In accordance with the embodiment of the invention disclosed inFIGS. 10C and 10D, thermocouples 178 and 180 may be monitored bytemperature control software and used as input to control the heater andsupply of chill fluid. Additional inputs to the temperature controlsoftware which may be used include position of the valves, chill fluidpump speed or chill fluid flow, back pressure valve position, chillfluid supply manifold pressure, pressure and temperature of the reactorvessel, and time.

[0086] Those of skill in the art will recognize that although oneembodiment of the thermal control system of the present invention isdescribed above, the present invention encompasses a number ofalternative embodiments. By way of example, but not of limitation, thethermal control system of the present invention may be used with asingle reactor vessel or with an array of more than the four shown inFIG. 10D. Additionally, although cooling is provided in the embodimentdiscussed by chill fluid, any acceptable cooling medium may be used, andthe term “chill fluid” as used herein refers to any such acceptablecooling medium. Moreover, the thermal control system need not beautomatically connected when a module 16 is placed in a slot 20 of thebackplane 12.

[0087] Reactor Clamp

[0088] In order to facilitate a safe operating environment, a reactor 30and a reactor lid 92 should, in a preferred embodiment, be securelyfastened to a structural framework while a reaction is run inside thereactor 30. With reference to FIGS. 8 and 16-21, a clamp 84 isreleasably attached to module shell 70 using clamp attachments 308,which include posts that join with holes 75 in the module sidewalls 80to secure the clamp to the module shell 70. In operation, the clamp 84contacts portions of the reactor junction, including portions of thereactor mouth 91 and the reactor lid 92. The clamp 84 is operable torelease the reactor lid 92 from the reactor 30 when the pressure withinthe scaled reactor chamber 96 (formed by the union of reactor 30 andreactor lid 92) reaches a threshold pressure. The term thresholdpressure, as used herein refers to the pressure in the reactor chamber96 required apply sufficient force to the clamp to temporarily releasethe reactor lid from the reactor mouth, when the clamp is being used tohold the reactor lid to the reactor mouth.

[0089]FIG. 16 shows a bottom view of clamp 84. The clamp 84 includes afirst or front clamp member 304 releasably joined to a second or rearclamp member 306. Retaining bolts 302 extend through bores (not shown)in the front clamp member 304 and into channels 314 in the rear clampmember 306. Each of the retaining bolts 302 includes a knob 300 on theend of the retaining bolts 302 extending from the front clamp member304. Retaining bolts 302 can include a bar, stud, rod, or otherelongated member extending between front clamp member 304 and rear clampmember 306. Nuts 310 a and 310 b are recessed in the channels 314 of therear clamp member 306. A spring 312 is retained upon the retaining bolts302 between nuts 310 a and 310 b in each channel 314 The retaining bolts302 extend through the front clamp member 304 and into rear clamp member306, where retaining bolts 302 also extend through nut 310 a. Theretaining bolts 302 extend through the springs 312 in the channels 314.Threads on the retaining bolts 302 engage complimentary threads (notshown) on nuts 310 b. Nuts 310 a do not include threads. Thus, when theretaining bolts 302 are rotated, nuts 310 a remain stationary, but nuts310 b travel along the channels thereby compressing or relaxing springs312, as the case may be. The more the springs compress in the channel,the more force is required to separate the front clamp member 304 fromthe rear clamp member 306. Accordingly, knobs 300 and retaining bolts302 comprise an adjusting means, for purposes of adjusting tension insprings 312 and the force holding the first clamp member 304 to thesecond clamp member 306.

[0090] As shown in FIGS. 10A and 20-22, the mouth of the reactor 91 andthe bottom of the reactor lid 92 are angled outwardly. As shown in FIGS.17 and 18, and further illustrated in FIG. 19, an angled edge 322 isinscribed along the inside of the front clamp member 304 and the rearclamp member 306 such that the angled edge 322 is continuous when frontclamp member 304 and rear clamp member 306 are joined together. Anglededge 322 includes top angled edge 316 and bottom angled edge 318.Additionally, O-ring grooves 320 are inscribed along top angled edge 316and bottom angled edge 318. O-rings or partial O-rings (not shown) aredeposited into O-ring grooves 320 to assist in providing a cushionedsurfaces for contacting the reactor junction and holding the reactor lid92 to the reactor mouth 91.

[0091] When the front clamp member 304 and rear clamp member 306 arejoined, and the knobs 300 are tightened, the threads (not shown) onretaining bolts 302 operate on complimentary threads (not shown) on nut310 b such that nut 310 b moves closer to nut 310 a. The springs 312between nuts 310 a and 310 b are compressed by the movement of nuts 310b. The compression of the springs 312 serves to impart a force whichbiases the knob ends of the bolts toward the channels 314 of the rearclamp member 306. This causes the knobs 300 to press against the frontclamp member, or the shield 85, if shield 85 is installed, and bias thefront clamp member 304 toward rear clamp member 306, thereby tightlyjoining the front clamp member to the rear clamp member. When the clampis installed on the reactor junction, the angled edge 322 inside theclamp 84 forces the reactor 30 and the reactor lid 92 together tightlyby top angled edge 316 (or a surface associated therewith, such as anO-ring) pressing down against the outwardly angled bottom of the reactorlid 92, and bottom angled edge 318 (or a surface associated therewith,such as an O-ring) pressing up against the outwardly angled top of thereactor 30 (i.e., the reactor mouth 91). FIG. 20 shows an exploded,cut-away view of the reactor 30 and the reactor lid 92 pressed togetherby top angled edge 316 and bottom angled edge 318. An o-ring 317 isshown positioned between the reactor lid 92 and the reactor mouth 91. Asthe springs are further compressed, the forces acting against thereactor lid and the reactor mouth increase. Alternative means forbiasing front clamp member 304 against rear clamp member 306 (andthereby creating forces biasing the reactor lid 92 to the reactor mouth91) include using an elastomeric band or string, a gas or liquidpressure apparatus, or a flexible metal apparatus.

[0092] Referring again to FIG. 7, clamp 84 is attached to module shell70, and the clamp 84 is also attached to reactor lid 92 and reactor 30.Reactor O-ring grooves (not shown) are inscribed about the top of thereactor 30 and the bottom of the reactor lid 92. The union of thereactor 30 and the reactor lid 92, along with the inclusion of anelastomeric O-ring (not shown) into the reactor O-ring grooves 320creates a sealed reactor chamber 96. When the reactor lid 92 and thereactor 30 are attached to the clamp 84, and knobs 300 are tightened,the angled edges 322 of the clamp 84, as shown in FIG. 10d, ensure thatthe reactor lid 92 and the reactor 30 are sealably engaged as long asthe pressure within the reactor vessel remains below some thresholdpressure. Under reaction conditions inside the reactor chamber 96, areaction may evolve a gas, which creates a pressure inside the reactorchamber 96 greater than the pressure of the surrounding atmosphere.Under high pressure inside the reactor 30, gas pressure pushes thereactor lid 92 away from the reactor 30. Under this high pressure, thereactor lid 92 applies a force to the top angled edge 316, and thereactor 30 applies a force to the bottom angled edge 318. The verticalseparation force imparted by the reactor 30 and the reactor lid 92 isconverted into a horizontal force by top angled edge 316 and bottomangled edge 318. At a threshold internal reaction chamber pressure, thisapplied horizontal force causes the springs 312 inside the clamp 84 tocontract further, which allows front clamp member 304 to slightlyseparate from rear clamp member 306. The disengaging of front clampmember 304 from rear clamp member 306 allows the reactor lid 92 and thereactor 30 to separate slightly, while still being retained by topangled edge 316 and bottom angled edge 318, respectively. FIG. 21illustrates an exploded, cut-away view of reactor lid 92 and reactor 30separating, while still being retained by top angled edge 316 and bottomangled edge 318, respectively. The slight separation of the reactor lid92 from the reactor 30 serves to vent excess pressure from the internalreaction chamber 96 to the surrounding atmosphere through the openingscreated by the separation of front clamp member 304 and rear clampmember 306, and return the reactor 30 to a safe operating pressure. Whena safe operating pressure inside the reactor 30 is reached, the springs312 expand, which forces the front clamp member 304 and the rear clampmember 306 together, which in turn causes top angled edge 316 and bottomangled edge 318 to exert increased pressure on reactor lid 92 andreactor 30, to seal the reactor lid 92 to the reactor 30. Thereversibility of this pressure venting process allows reactor 30 andreactor lid 92 to be separated and rejoined multiple times during thecourse of a reaction without operator intervention, should reactionconditions require.

[0093] Computer Software

[0094] The computer 18 includes software that an automated laboratoryworkstation used to control the laboratory instruments and/or planautomated experiments using the modular reactor system 10. The computer18 includes a microprocessor/controller running an operating system suchas WINDOWS® 2000 that allows for graphical program manipulation. Aninput/output device is connected to the microprocessor and allows theuser of the modular reactor system 10 to interact with themicroprocessor. The input/output device typically includes a keyboard,monitor, mouse, speakers and/or other input/output devices used inassociation with computers such as microphones, touch screens,trackballs, etc. As shown in FIG. 5, the microprocessor is connected tothe processor 54 of the backplane 12 through RS-232 interface 51. Theprocessor 54 interacts with the microprocessor of the computer and thededicated module control units 60 to deliver control signals to thelaboratory devices associated with the modules 16. The laboratorydevices 118 may include, for example, pumps, stirrers, heaters, coolers,vacuum devices, temperature monitors, pressure monitors, and othersensors and laboratory instruments. Furthermore, the terms “laboratorydevices” or “laboratory instruments” as used herein may refer to anynumber of devices used in chemical processes, regardless of size, andregardless of whether the device is or can be used in a traditional“laboratory” setting.

[0095] With reference to FIGS. 11A and 11B, the software stored in thecomputer 18 provides a graphical user desktop 232 for controlling and/orprogramming the laboratory devices, including the laboratory deviceslocated on any module positioned in any seat 20 of the backplane 12. Thegraphical user desktop 232 may be accessed by the user of the modularreactor system through the input/output device. As shown in FIG. 11A,the graphical user desktop 232 includes an overview screen 234 thatdisplays graphical representations of each module reactor 230. In theembodiment shown, the overview screen 234 is divided into four quadrants239, with each quadrant showing one module reactor 230. At thediscretion of the user, the modules may be viewed or may remain hiddenin each quadrant. When a module reactor is displayed in one of thequadrants 239, a representation of the reactor 230 is shown along with atable of data 231 specific to that module reactor. A menu 233 is alsoprovided next to each reactor 230, thus providing the user with optionsconcerning control of the module and the data shown in association withthe module.

[0096] One of the menu 233 options allows the user to provideconfiguration parameters for the particular module to the computer. Inparticular, by selecting the “configure module” option from the menu233, the user is provided with a configuration screen, such as thatshown in FIG. 15. The configuration screen 291 provides a name block 292for the user to input/edit the module name that will be associated withthe configuration. In addition, the configuration screen allows the userto input the reactor size associated with the module in block 294,calibrate the feed pumps associated with the module in block 296, andinput a number of alarm settings in block 298. After selecting the “OK”button on the configuration screen, the user is returned to the overviewscreen.

[0097] Referring again to FIG. 11A, the menu 233 also provides the userwith the ability to remove the module from the screen by selecting the“Remove Module” option from the menu. As explained in more detail below,the menu 233 also provides the user with options related to a program or“recipe” Furthermore, the menu provides the user with the ability torecord a series of steps that are taken with respect to a particularmodule and save those steps in a “recipe”. This process of recording isdescribed in further detail in pending U.S. application Ser. No.10/162,272, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0098] A larger, more detailed overview screen for each reactor 230 maybe viewed by clicking on the quadrant number 257 or the module name 202associated with the reactor 230 shown on the overview screen 234. Oneembodiment of the more detailed overview screen 237 is shown in FIG. 1B.As shown in FIG. 1B, the more detailed overview screen 237 is similar tothe overview screen 234 shown in FIG. 11A, but includes additionalinformation. The more detailed overview screen 237 includes arepresentation of the reactor 230 located on the module, a menu 249, anda table of data 248 for each reactor. The table of data 248 includescolumns showing the target and actual amounts for various parametersrelated to the reactor, including temperature of the reactor,temperature of the jacket, feed volumes for the reagents, stirrer speedand torque, pressure within the reactor and pH within the reactor. Athird column of feed rates is also provided for determining the rate atwhich reagents will be fed to the reactor. The overview screen 237 alsoincludes a graph that provides a visual display of selected parametersshown in the table 248 during a chosen time period. The more detailedoverview screen 237 also includes representations of the reagent feeds240 and 242, a representation of the vacuum line 255 and representationof the inert gas/pressure line 253.

[0099] With continued reference to FIGS. 11A and 11B, the graphical userdesktop 232 allows the user to easily control and monitor the progressof an experiment from the overview screen 234. The particular reactorbeing shown on the overview screen is identified by a reactoridentification block 200. The reactor identification block 200 shows thename 202 of the module holding the reactor. Although the modules areformally identified by the modular reactor system based on theelectronic tag on the module, the graphical user desktop allows the userto identify modules by more user-friendly names. As shown in FIG. 11B,the module holding the reactor represented by reference numeral 230 isnamed “Jim 001”. If the user wishes to see the set-up for a reactorassociated with a different module, the user simply goes to overviewscreen 234 and selects the module. The detailed view of that module maythen be displayed on the full screen, as described above.

[0100] The graphical user desktop 232 also provides the user with theability to control each of the laboratory devices used in the experimentdirectly from the screen. Accordingly, the modular reactor system 10allows the user to conduct an experiment by commanding one instrumentafter another to take certain actions, thereby orchestrating theexperiment step-by-step, in real-time, from the desktop 232.Alternatively, as explained in more detail below, the user may programthe system to run independent of human operation, and thereby leave thedesktop while the experiment is automatically carried out under computercontrol.

[0101] Real Time Experiment Control

[0102] All laboratory devices depicted on the graphical user desktop 232may be controlled by clicking on the control “button” (i.e., selectableoption) associated with that device (e.g., the “Feed A Control” button241, the “Feed B Control” button 243, the “Stirrer Control” button 245,or the “Temperature Control” button 247). A mouse or other input deviceis provided to allow the user to select the desired device/buttons formanipulation. For example, if the user selects the “Stirrer Control”button 245, a dialog box will be displayed showing the stirrerparameters, as shown in FIG. 12. Thus, if the user wants to change thestirrer speed from 550 rpm to 500 rpm, the user selects the display ofthe stirrer setpoint rpm in the dialog box and, using the keyboard,inserts the number “500” in place of the number “550.” Next, the userselects the “Accept” button at the bottom of the dialog box, and thestirrer immediately starts spinning at the new rate of 500 rpm. Ofcourse, any number of different means may be used to allow the user toenter operating parameters and the system to receive such parametersrelated to a particular laboratory device. For example, representativedevice control panels could be used to allow the user to enter theoperational parameters or graphical parameter representations could beused to adjust parameters (e.g., clicking on a representative stirrercould adjust the stirrer spin speed). As a further example, operationalparameters could be keyed into the system, adjusted by a click of themouse, or entered vocally.

[0103] Similarly, the user may click on one of the “Feed Control” 241 or243 buttons to control the feed rate and amount of liquid product to befed to the reactor. After clicking on the “Feed Control” buttons, adialog box appears, similar to that shown in FIG. 12, allowing the userto insert a desired feed rate (in weight or volume per minute) and adesired feed amount (in total weight or volume). Again, after clickingthe “Accept” button at the bottom of the dialog box, the workstationwill begin the desired feed.

[0104] The desktop also provides for temperature control of the reactor.After clicking on the “Temperature Control” button 247, a dialog boxappears, allowing the user to choose the desired temperature measurementto control. After choosing a desired temperature or temperature range,the user also provides a ramp rate which defines the rate at which thetemperature will change (e.g., ° C./min). After completing theinformation in the dialog box, the user clicks the “Accept” button atthe bottom of the dialog box and the workstation immediately begins tocontrol the identified temperature based upon the users instructions.When the temperature control determines that the temperature is not inthe preferred range, heat transfer into or out of the reactor iscontrolled as described above with respect to the thermal control unit14.

[0105] With reference to FIG. 11B, the information presented on theoverview screen 237 continuously changes based upon actual experimentconditions. For example, the “Feed A” data box 290 is periodicallyupdated to show the actual amount of fluid that has been fed through theFeed 1 pump. Likewise, other cells of the “Reactor Conditions” table 248keep track of various temperatures, reactor pressure and reactor pH.Also, the “Reactor Contents” data box 298 keeps track of the totalvolume of fluid in the reactor, if applicable. If any experimentparameter reaches a certain threshold, a warning will be sounded ordisplayed on the desktop. For example, if the volume of reactor contentsbecomes dangerously high, an alarm sounds or a message appears on thescreen warning the user to avoid over-filling the reactor. Similarly, ifthe reactor contents reach a threshold temperature, making the reactorunstable, a warning will be sounded or displayed, warning the user todecrease the temperature of the reactor contents.

[0106] Recipe Programming and Unattended Operation

[0107] If the user desires, the system 10 may be pre-programmed tocomplete all steps of an experiment automatically with respect to aparticular module, thereby allowing the experiment to be conductedunattended once the module is positioned in a slot 20 of the backplane12. By clicking on the “Edit Single Recipe” button from the menu 233 or249, or by selecting the “Recipe Maintenance” option 256 provided alongthe top of the overview screen, the user is presented with a “recipeeditor” 258, such as that shown in FIG. 13. The recipe editor 258 is atool for programming an experiment to be performed automatically bydefining a “recipe” (i.e., a series of steps to be followed toaccomplish a desired result). The recipe is saved as an executablecomputer program that can be played using the system software. Therecipe editor includes a “Stage Details” tab 262, a “Stage Specials” tab264, and a “Stage Overview” tab 268. Each tab provides different optionsto the user concerning the recipe.

[0108] Under the “Stage Details” tab 262, the recipe editor 258 isdesigned to set up the automated experiment to be conducted in thereactor of a particular module as a series of steps or stages. A stageindicator 260 is provided on each screen of the recipe editor on the topright of the screen. The stage indicator shows an indication of thestage as well as arrows for maneuvering between stages. The userprograms each stage of the recipe under the “Stage Details” tab, and byusing the stage indicator to maneuver between stages. Each screen underthe “Stage Details” tab includes a variety of icons representative ofvarious operations (e.g., temperature control 270, addition of liquids272, valve settings 274, pressure control 278, stirring 276, etc.). Theuser identifies a desired action in each stage by inputting performanceinformation in the boxes associated with each icon. For example, if theuser wants to start the experiment by setting the reactor temperature to25° C. for at least 20 minutes, the temperature set point of 25° C. isindicated in temperature mode box 270 and a hold time of 20 minutes isindicated in the hold time box 280. After identifying this first stage,the user then moves to the next stage by pressing the “>” arrow in thestage indicator 260. In the next stage, the user programs an additionalstep to be carried out, such as adding a new chemical through the“addition mode” box 272 or stirring the reaction through the “stirrer”box 276. When additional stages are added, the total number of stages inthe experiment are shown in the stage indicator 260. For example, inFIG. 13, a seven stage experiment has been created and the first stageof the experiment is displayed in under the “Stage Details” tab. Theuser can move between stages by clicking the arrows to the right andleft of the indicated stage in the stage indicator 260. By movingthrough the experiment stage-by-stage, the user defines the completeexperiment, breaking down the experiment to define how the equipment andlaboratory devices should function in each stage.

[0109] In addition to automated stages, the user may program a manualstage. This is done by clicking the “enabled” button in the manualconfirmation box 282, and inserting instructions on the manual step tobe taken by the user. This feature is especially useful when solid orliquid reagents are to be added to the reactor during an experiment. Forexample, if 10 ml of NaCl is to be added to the reactor in a givenstage, the user can note this as a stage in the recipe editor and notethat manual confirmation is required before moving to the next stage.Thus, when the workstation automatically replays the recipe, aconfirmation box will appear asking if 10 ml of NaCl has been added tothe reactor. The confirmation box will include “yes” and “no” buttonsthe user may click in response. The workstation will not proceed withthe experiment until the user makes a positive response that the NaClhas been added. Of course, the recipe programmer must recognize thatmanual confirmation steps can not be used if he/she desires to conduct afully automated experiment with no user present to oversee theexperiment.

[0110] The “Stage Specials” tab 264 allows the user to customize certainfunctions associated with different stages of the programmed experiment.For example, the “Stage Specials” tab provides for experimenttermination conditions (e.g., excessive pressure, temperature, etc.),data logging rates (i.e., snapshot of experiment conditions taken at aperiodic rate), and special alarm settings (e.g., excessive pressure,temperature, etc.).

[0111] The “Stages Overview” tab 268 allows the user to review theentire experiment in a single spreadsheet format, such as that shown inFIG. 14. The “Stages Overview” tab 268 allows the user to see stagesnext to each other in tabular fashion, allowing the user to view theentire experiment on a single page, line-by-line. If the user sees anyproblems with the experiment set-up or desires changes in any particularstage, he or she can double click on the line showing the particularstage and be transferred to the “Stage Details” tab for that stage. Atthe “Stage Details” tab, the user may make any required modifications tothe experimental set-up. Alternatively, the user may make modificationsto different stages directly from the “Stages Overview” tab 268 bysingle clicking on an particular information item and changing the entryfor that item. For example, if the user wants to change the hold time instep one from 20 to 25 minutes, the user can click on the “20” in lineone and enter the new data in place of the old.

[0112] After all stages of a recipe are entered into the system, therecipe is saved by clicking the “Save” button 284. Thereafter, thecreated recipe is saved and the user is returned to the overview screen234 or 237.

[0113] At the overview screen 234 or 237, the user may execute therecipe by clicking on the “Execute Recipe” button from the menu 233 or249. Choosing this “Execute Recipe” button will allow the user to choosefrom a list of recipes saved in the system. After the user chooses arecipe, the software will confirm that all laboratory devices requiredto execute the chosen recipe are connected to the system. If allrequired laboratory devices are not connected, the user will receive anerror message informing the user that the required devices to executethe recipe are not properly connected. Also, before starting theexperiment, the system will request confirmation that the reactor 30 hasbeen filled with any required starting materials. Finally, beforestarting the experiment, the system will ask the user when he or shewants the experiment to begin. The user generally has the ability tostart the experiment immediately or at a pre-defined time. For example,if the user wants an experiment to start in the middle of the night, theuser can instruct the workstation to start the experiment at that time.

[0114] The overview screen 234 or 237 also provides the user with theability to edit any recipes saved in the system. This option isavailable by clicking the “Edit Single Recipe” button provided on themenu 233 or 249. By clicking the “Edit Single Recipe” button, the useris presented with a list of recipes saved in the system. After the userchooses a recipe, the recipe information is presented in the recipeeditor and the recipe may be edited in the recipe editor, as describedabove.

[0115] Operation of the Modular Reactor System

[0116] As discussed above, when a chemist wants to conduct an experimentin one of the reactors, the experiment may be conducted in real-time orprogrammed into the computer for future automatic execution using themodular reactor system. It is anticipated that experiments using themodular reactor system will typically be pre-programmed for laterexecution. In particular, the modular reactor system allows a pluralityof chemists to each have control over a plurality of modules. Using thecomputer 18, each chemist may then program experiments to be conductedin each of the modules. As discussed above, because the modular reactorsystem is capable of taking different actions with respect to differentmodules in different slots of the backplane, the experiments programmedfor different modules may vary significantly in terms of functions usedin each experiment and steps conducted to complete each experiment. Forexample, one experiment may call for continuous stirring while anotherexperiment conducted in an adjacent module may call for no stirring. Asanother example, controlling the temperature in one module reactor mayrequire cooling fluid to flow into the cooling chamber at 5° C., whilecooling fluid for another module reactor in an adjacent slot may onlyrequire cooling fluid at SOC.

[0117] After the module is set up to conduct the experiment asprogrammed, the module is given to a laboratory technician for executionof the experiments using the modular reactor system. The laboratorytechnician places modules 16 in the backplane 12 as the slots 20 becomeavailable. When a particular module 16 is placed in the backplane, theidentification reader 22 reads the identification of the module 16 andforwards the identification to the processor 54 and computer 18. Thecomputer automatically recognizes the module and temporarily associatesthe module with the particular slot in which it was placed. The computeralso accesses the program associated with that module and determines ifthe module contains all laboratory instruments required to conduct theexperiment as programmed. Thereafter, when executing the instructionscontained in the program associated with that module, the computer usesthe laboratory instruments associated with the slot retaining the moduleto execute the instructions and thereby conduct an experiment in themodule reactor. In this manner, experiments may be programmed forindividual modules without limiting the module to any particular slot ofthe backplane.

[0118] A chemist wishing to use the modular reactor system first visitsthe computer 18 and, using the recipe editor, enters step-by-stepinstructions for completion of an experiment to be conducted in aparticular module. Part of the programming process involves associationof the planned experiment with one of the reactor modules. This may beaccomplished because each reactor module has a unique ID in the form ofa number, bar code or other identifier, allowing the chemist to identifythe reactor module to the computer. Of course, as discussed above,user-friendly names may be assigned to each module to help the chemisteasily remember the names of the modules. After programming a set ofinstructions for completing an experiment in a particular module, thechemist prepares the module and associated reactor for the automatedexperiment by inserting initial reaction contents into the reactorvessel, providing reagents to be added during the experiment in areagent bottle, attaching laboratory instruments to the reactor (e.g.,temperature sensors), attaching required tubes and lines on the module,and/or taking any other required preparatory steps. After the reactormodule is readied for the experiment, the chemist indicates that themodule is ready for an experiment in the backplane. This can beaccomplished by any of various protocols, such as placing the module ina queue or otherwise passing the module on to a laboratory technicianresponsible for keeping experiments running in the backplane. When aslot becomes available in the backplane, the laboratory technician seatsthe module in the open slot, making sure that all standard connectionsare made between the module and the backplane, including connection ofthe electrical connectors, gas line connectors and fluid ports. Thelaboratory technician also makes any additional required connectionsbetween the backplane and the module, such as connection of sensors toreceptacles 44 and connection of the stirrer shaft to the drive shaft ofthe motor.

[0119] When the backplane receives a reactor module, the identificationon the module allows the module to be associated with a pre-recordedrecipe, if applicable. Thus, if the identification is a human readableidentification, the laboratory technician will indicate that theparticular module is seated in a particular slot. This allows thecomputer to retrieve instructions for that module and direct actions forthat module to the slot where the module is located. On the other hand,if the identification is an electronic tag or other machine-readableidentification, the tag reader reads the tag on the module and reportsthe identification of the module to the computer. Based on theidentification and the tag reader relaying the identification, thecomputer automatically recognizes the particular reactor module and theparticular slot of the backplane where the module is seated. Thecomputer then retrieves the instructions related to that particularmodule and proceeds to conduct the experiment designed for the materialsin the designated module, using the laboratory instruments on the moduleand associated with the slot in which the module was placed.Accordingly, the lab technician is not restricted to placing the modulein any particular slot of the backplane, as the computer has the abilityto recognize the module and execute specific instructions for themodule, regardless of the slot in which the module is placed.

[0120] Based on the information provided to the computer, the softwareresiding on the computer 18 delivers control signals to the backplane,reactor modules seated in slots of the backplane, and the thermalcontrol unit. These control signals allow experiments to beautomatically conducted in each reactor. For example, a control signalfrom the computer will instruct a motor in the backplane to stir thecontents of one of the reactors at a particular time, or instruct thethermal control unit to deliver liquid cooling agent to the reactor at agiven time. Of course, the backplane is designed to accommodate a numberof reactor modules, so numerous experiments may be conductedsimultaneously using the present invention. Furthermore, because of themodular nature of the system, the modular reactor system cansimultaneously conduct a number of distinct experiments. These distinctexperiments may vary in any number of different ways, including distinctfunctions and processes, since the laboratory instruments and toolsavailable to each slot and the module placed in that slot may becontrolled completely independent of the laboratory instruments andtools available to adjacent slots and modules placed in those slots. Thecomputer is also capable of avoiding scheduling conflicts betweenvarious devices (e.g., conflicts with use of the robotic arm). However,scheduling conflicts will not typically be a problem, as each slot ofthe backplane typically has identical laboratory instruments, and thereare few, if any, laboratory instruments that must be shared betweenslots. The fact that each slot includes a standardized set of laboratoryinstruments, allows any given experiment to be conducted in any givenslot. Because the modular reactor system allows the chemist topre-program experiments in individual modules for later execution, andbecause the experiments may be conducted automatically without thepresence of the chemist, the chemist is freed to work on other tasks.For example, the chemist may spend his or her time planning futureexperiments while other experiments are conducted automatically.Alternatively, the chemist may queue up a number of modules to forexperiments during the night hours, when the chemist is away from thelaboratory.

[0121] Although the present invention has been described in considerabledetail with reference to certain preferred versions thereof, otherversions are possible. For example, the physical form of the backplaneand modules may take on number of different embodiments other than thosedescribed. In particular, the connectors and receptacles of thebackplane could all be positioned differently, or the top canopy couldbe removed from the backplane. In addition, certain laboratoryinstruments could be added or removed from the backplane or any of themodules. The modules could take on different shapes or sizes, anddifferent mechanisms could be used to seat the modules in the backplane.Furthermore, the graphical user desktop used to conduct experimentscould be set up differently than that shown and described. Therefore,the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited to thedescription of the preferred versions contained herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A reactor vessel for use with a module shellreleaseably positioned within a backplane, the reactor vesselcomprising: a. an interior wall defining a reactor chamber; b. anexterior wall surrounding the interior wall and forming a chamberbetween the interior wall and the exterior wall; c. at least one portpositioned upon the exterior wall and leading to the chamber; d. a quickconnect connector rigidly attached to the at least one port.
 2. Thereactor vessel of claim 1 further comprising a sleeve that engages thequick connect connector and the at least one port to secure the quickconnect connector to the at least one port.
 3. The reactor vessel ofclaim 2 wherein the at least one port is threaded and the sleeve isthreaded.
 4. The reactor vessel of claim 3 further comprising an O-ringpositioned between the quick connect connector and the port.
 5. Thereactor vessel of claim 3 wherein the quick connect connector includes abase portion and a stud portion extending from the base portion, whereinthe base portion is connected to the at least one port.
 6. The reactorvessel of claim 5 wherein the module shell includes a reactor seat forreceiving the reactor vessel, and the studs of the quick connectconnectors extend from the back of the module shell.
 7. The reactorvessel of claim 6 wherein the backplane includes a slot for receivingthe module shell and complimentary connectors that receive the quickconnect connectors when the module shell is seated in the slot of thebackplane.
 8. The reactor vessel of claim 5 wherein the stud includes atleast one O-ring groove.
 9. The reactor vessel of claim 1 furthercomprising a lid having a plurality of ports.
 10. The reactor vessel ofclaim 9 wherein the plurality of ports include a stirrer port centrallypositioned upon the lid.
 11. The reactor vessel of claim 10 furthercomprising a first peripheral port, a second peripheral port, a thirdperipheral port, and a fourth peripheral port positioned upon the lidaround the stirrer port and spaced 90 degrees apart.
 12. The reactorvessel of claim 11 further comprising a fifth peripheral port and asixth peripheral port each spaced 45 degrees apart from the firstperipheral port on the lid.
 13. A reactor vessel for use with a moduleshell releaseably positioned within a backplane, the reactor vesselcomprising: a. an interior wall defining a reactor chamber; b. anexterior wall surrounding the interior wall and forming a chamberbetween the interior wall and the exterior wall; c. at least one portpositioned upon the exterior wall and leading to the chamber; d. aconnector means rigidly attached to the at least one port.
 14. Thereactor vessel of claim 13 further comprising a sleeve that engages thequick connect connector and the at least one port to secure the quickconnect connector to the at least one port.
 15. The reactor vessel ofclaim 14 wherein the at least one port is threaded and the sleeve isthreaded.
 16. The reactor vessel of claim 13 further comprising a lidhaving a plurality of ports.
 17. A method of joining a reactor vessel toa backplane, the method comprising: a. providing a reactor vessel havinga jacket and an inlet port and an outlet port providing openings to thejacket; b. attaching a first quick connect connector to the inlet portand a second quick connect connector to the outlet port such that firstquick connect connector is rigid with respect to the inlet port and thesecond quick connect connector is rigid with respect to the outlet port;c. placing the reactor vessel in a module shell; d. inserting the moduleshell into a slot of a backplane having a first complimentary connectorand a second complimentary connector such that the first quick connectconnector engages the first complimentary connector and the second quickconnect connector engage the second complimentary connector.
 18. Themethod of claim 17 further comprising the step of engaging a sleeve withthe quick connect connector and the at least one port to secure thequick connect connector to the at least one port.
 19. The method ofclaim 17 wherein the reactor vessel includes a lid having a plurality ofports.
 20. The method of claim 19 further comprising the step ofclamping the lid to the reactor vessel when the reactor vessel is placedin the module shell.